Alex Postlethwaite (1st violin) is a freelance violinist based in S. London. He is in demand as orchestral leader, chamber musician, soloist and recording artist having worked with many top chart acts including the Divine Comedy and Kinobe, whose hit was recently featured on the Kronenbourg advert. Recent and upcoming solo appearances include performances of The Lark Ascending on November 29th 2006, Schnittke’s Third Violin Concerto at St John’s, Smith Square in June 2006, Bruch’s First Violin Concerto, Bach E Major Violin Concerto, Atterburg’s Suite for Violin and Viola (with Jane on viola) and Beethoven’s Triple Concerto.  Other interests include studying for an Open University degree in Natural Sciences, watching Manchester United and chasing after his toddler Ella and new baby daughter Cleo.

Jane Park (2nd violin/viola) was a performance undergraduate in Cardiff, receiving the Ernest and Doris Haigh Memorial Award for achievement and commitment to studies while there, and has a masters degree in Contemporary Music Studies from Goldsmiths College, University of London. She too is a freelance professional, combining performing work with orchestras, ensembles and operatic societies with working with autistic children at the Rainbow School. Jane also teaches viola at Kingston University. Recent solo appearances include Walton’s Viola Concerto, two performances of Beethoven’s Romance in F, Bach’s Concerto for Oboe and Violin and in Berio’s Duetti with Alex. Hobbies include cheering on Carlisle United and helping Alex to chase Ella and wipe Cleo :-)

Gareth Hamill (viola) is originally from Northern Ireland, having moved to London in 1990 to study at the Royal College of Music.  After a year he decided to get a real job, working for Marks and Spencer for 5 years and then as a financial adviser for 8 years. However Gareth has finally come to his senses and realised music is the only thing for him and so has recently returned to the RCM as an undergraduate student. Recent solo performances include Hindemith’s Trauermusik and Meditation. He plays a viola made by Homer Clark in 1982. Gareth performed his Final Recital at the RCM in April 2008 and graduated in July- congrats G!

Gareth recently organised a very special and successful event at the RCM involving Wine and Music... what more could you possibly wish for!

Tessa Oakley (cello) studied at Trinity College of Music and is a performer, session musician and teacher in and around South London. She is lead cellist with the Richmond Chamber Symphony and freelances all over the south of England. Hobbies include tickling Louis the cat under the chin... Recent performances include being soloist in Saint Saens’ Cello Concerto. Tess married the lovely Rich in Sept 2007 and a splendid time was had by all!

Alex, first violinist in the string quartet

Jane playing second violin

Gareth on viola

Tessa, our cellist

All members of the Alexandria Ensemble are professional musicians. We met through freelance performing and have worked together as a group for several years.

The photos displayed on the right were taken, very informally, at Pembroke Lodge, Richmond park in March 2006 by the excellent photographer and all-round very nice chap Rob at www.shootinghip.com. We wholeheartedly endorse his talents! Click on a picture to link to his website for more beautiful images...